Secret Deployment to Iraq

From: Peace Action Wellington

'The secret deployment of a second contingent of troops to Iraq is clear evidence that Helen Clark does not want any questioning of her role in supporting the US army of occupation. The last time the troops left, in September, there was significant public opposition and protestors travelled to Ohakea to voice their objection. This time there was no advance public announcement of the deployment' said Peace Action Wellington member Valerie Morse.

'Clark and her cabinet colleagues are cowards. There is no justification for providing security and support to continue an illegal occupation. They call it reconstruction, but it is really all about getting in good with the Yanks for a free trade deal. Meanwhile our own NZDF is being exposed to depleted uranium.'

'Helen Clark has also refused to participate in a public debate moderated by Ross Wilson, president of the NZ Council of Trade Unions about the deployment of troops to both Iraq and Afghanistan.'

'It is ridiculous to provide engineers to a country with 70% unemployment. The Iraqis don't need engineers, they need material and money to reconstruct their own country. New Zealanders do not want to take jobs away from Iraqis or provide assistance to the occupation force.'

Peace Action Wellington demands an immediate end to all New Zealand support for Bush's wars.

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